Frequently Asked Questions

Law Commencement 2015

When is the Commencement ceremony, where is it held, and when is it over?

The Commencement ceremony for the School of Law will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2015, in the McCarthey Athletic Center. Graduates line up in the gym of The Charlotte Y. Martin Centre in their academic attire no later than 8:30 a.m. and this is a good time for their guests to arrive in the McCarthey Athletic Center. The ceremony begins with an academic procession at 9 a.m. and will end at approximately 10:45 a.m. Ample seating is available, graduates may invite as many guests as they wish to the ceremony, and no tickets are needed for admission.

A social held on the lawn at the School of Law will be held immediately following the ceremony, ending at about 12 noon.

How does a student order graduation announcements and invitations?

Graduate Services Northwest provides personalized graduation announcements and invitations, and will be sending order information to students in late Fall/early winter.

Academic attire can be picked up Tuesday, May 5th from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. in Room 314. The Alumni Department and the Center for Professional Development will provide treats while we take you through your CPD exiting papers, go over alumni benefits, distribute regalia, and give you your ALUMNI GIFT! If you will be out of town for an externship, please contact Jennifer Gill at jgill@lawschool.gonzaga.edu, for alternative arrangements.

Is there a Commencement Mass and who may attend?

The Commencement Mass for the School of Law will be held in the University Chapel on the third floor of College Hall at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2014. Graduates and their guests of all faith traditions are invited to attend. Parking is available in the lot in front of College Hall and permits will not be required for the Commencement weekend.

Do law students need to attend rehearsal and when and where is it held?

Although rehearsal is not required, it is recommended. Rehearsal for all graduating students will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, May 8 in McCarthey Athletic Center.

Is the Associate Dean going to pronounce my name properly as I cross the stage?

If there are any questions about the pronunciation of your name, you will be contacted to schedule a time to come in to meet with the Associate Dean for assistance. Graduates are welcome to schedule a time to meet with the Associate Dean if they have any concerns about the pronunciation of their name.

Photographs at Commencement - can family members take them and will there be a professional photographer?

Family and friends may approach the stage and take pictures or a video; we ask everyone to be aware of other photographers and audience viewing. There will be a professional photographic team that will be taking a formal picture of every graduate as well as a candid shot. Order forms will be sent to the graduate during the summer from Image Studios in Moscow, Idaho 208.882.5594. You are under no obligation to order the pictures.

Following the ceremony a photographer will be available to take family photos at the law school, on the first floor near Cafe Lawte, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.